Sole Protectors for Shoes: Types, Uses & How to Choose
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A sole protector is a layer between your outsole and the ground. It takes the wear so the sole of the shoe doesn't.
There are two kinds, and they solve different problems.
The two types of sole protector
1. Stick-on sole protectors
A thin adhesive film, usually clear, cut to the shape of the sole and stuck on. Sneaker collectors use them to keep the outsole of a pair looking new.
- Stays on the shoe once applied.
- Needs trimming and careful fitting to each shoe.
- One film per pair; it is not moved between shoes.
- Covers flat soles. It does not suit studs or cleats.
2. Slip-on sole protectors
A cover that stretches over the outsole and comes off again. Glide Soles are this type.
- Goes on and off in seconds, with no adhesive.
- Reusable.
- Works over studs as well as flat soles.
- Changes how the shoe looks while it is on.
Which type suits you
| You want to… | Type |
|---|---|
| Keep a collector pair's sole clean and leave the protector on | Stick-on |
| Walk to the pitch in football boots or cleats | Slip-on |
| Keep basketball shoe grip off the pavement, then play in the bare shoe | Slip-on |
| Protect a pair sometimes, not always | Slip-on |
| Wear performance shoes day to day with a different look | Slip-on |
What sole protectors are used for
Football boots and soccer cleats. Studs are made for grass and turf. Concrete wears them down on the walk to and from the pitch. More in can you walk on concrete in football boots?
Basketball shoes. Court grip is made for hardwood. A cover keeps the outsole off the street until you reach the court. More in basketball shoe covers.
Sneakers. Protects the outsole of pairs you want to keep in good condition.
How Glide Soles work
Glide Soles are removable, reusable covers that stretch over the outsole. Nothing is glued and nothing about the shoe is changed.
- Choose the size range that matches your shoe size.
- Stretch the protector over the sole.
- Walk.
- Take it off before you play sport. Glide Soles are for off-pitch and off-court use.
Wear the protector. Not your soles.
Common questions
Do sole protectors work? A protector works by being the surface that touches the ground. Whatever wear would have reached your outsole reaches the protector first.
Can I play sport in a sole protector? Not in Glide Soles. They are for walking, and they come off before you play.
Are sole protectors reusable? Slip-on protectors are. Stick-on film is applied once.
Will a sole protector fit my shoes? Slip-on protectors come in size ranges. See what shoes Glide Soles fit and the size guide on each product page.
Where can I buy Glide Soles? At glidesoles.com, the official Glide Soles store.
